Top Trimmer

Lewis Services | 100% Employee-Owned; Dayton (OH); On-site; USD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

ESOP

Paid training and industry certs

Health, dental, vision & HSA options

401(k)

PTO & EAP

Job summary

Lewis Tree Service is seeking a Top Trimmer to perform advanced tree work, lead crew activities, and maintain safety on varied terrain. You’ll operate chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lift equipment while ensuring compliance with all regulations.

A CDL and CPR/First Aid certification are preferred, with opportunities for certification and advancement. Join our ESOP-owned team and contribute to projects near energized lines, roadway work, and storm response, while supporting customers and

Qualifications

• Two years on tree crews; Top Trimmer-level qualifications completed or ability to complete.
• Knowledge of tree identification, growth habits, and pruning techniques.
• Familiarity with ANSI Z133 Safety Requirements and A300 Pruning Standards.

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced trimming and removal aloft or on ground.
• Lead job site setup, maintenance, and traffic control.
• Direct crews in absence of Crew Leader and ensure safety protocols.
• Apply herbicides per laws and guidelines.
• Inspect and operate tools and heavy equipment; maintain vehicles.

Skills

Tree knowledge

leadership

safety compliance

equipment operation

driving CDL

certifications (CPR/First Aid)

Tools

Chainsaws

Chippers

Aerial lifts

Ropes & rigging

Ground tools

Job description

At Lewis, we’re not just trimming trees — we’re building a future. As the second-largest utility vegetation management company in North America and a proud employee‑owned business, we believe every person on our team matters. When you join Lewis, you’re not just taking a job — you’re investing in your future.

Why You’ll Love It Here

• Experience the great outdoors while working in nature, not stuck behind a desk!
• Elevate your career with us — we prioritize training and internal promotions!
• Join a vibrant team that champions safety, values your feedback, and fosters a strong sense of camaraderie!
• Shape your future with us through our fantastic Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)!

Responsibilities

What You’ll Do as a Top Trimmer

• Perform advanced tree trimming and removal work while aloft or using aerial lift equipment.
• Support and lead job site and work zone set up, maintenance, and traffic control.
• Lead tree felling, rigging, and clearance activities near energized lines (vegetation and debris removal).
• Support and lead ground‑level tree pruning and removal.
• Support and direct crews in the absence of the Crew Leader.
• Apply herbicides in accordance with laws and company guidelines.
• Inspect, maintain/prepare, and operate work tools (Chainsaw), heavy equipment (Chippers), and other equipment as assigned (Relevant certifications apply).
• Operate/Drive, Load/Unload, and maintain trucks and other work vehicles.
• Ensure team and public safety by identifying hazards, maintaining clear communication, and providing support to fellow employees both on the ground and while aloft.
• Train and retrain crew members on climbing, trimming, and safety practices.
• Promote positive relations with customers and the public and assist the Crew Leader in gaining consent from property owners.
• Assist with job briefings, communicate new equipment specifications, and ensure all safety protocols are followed.
• Participate in emergency response and storm work as needed.

Qualifications

What You Bring

• Minimum two years of experience on tree crews and completion of all Top Trimmer-level qualifications.
• Possess general knowledge of tree identification, growth habits, and proper pruning techniques.
• Knows and understands the ANSI Z133 Safety Requirements and A300 Pruning Standards for arboricultural operations.
• Advanced in tree ascent/descent using ropes and a safety saddle, and skilled in aerial lift operations.
• Proficiency in electrical circuit basics and interpreting circuit maps.
• Top Trimmer Technical Knowledge and Skills Certification (or ability to complete).
• Valid driver’s license, CDL, and required medical certification.
• CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis).
• Ability to lead others, communicate effectively, and work independently.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable state, local, and federal regulations.

Physical Demands

Ability To

• Lift 50 lbs. to shoulder height or higher.
• Push or pull up to 50 lbs.
• Walk or hike up to one mile on uneven terrain.
• Endure extreme climate variances (e.g., severe cold to high heat and humidity).
• Hear, speak, see, and communicate effectively.
• Operate two‑handed tools and equipment.
• Ability to progress skill in tree ascent and descent.
• Ability to work and maneuver at considerable heights during adverse weather conditions.

Tools & Equipment

Equipment May Include

• Aerial lift trucks, dump trucks, ATVs
• Chainsaws, pole saws, handsaws, chippers
• Blowers, pruners, rakes, winches, ropes
• Climbing gear: harness, chaps, spikes, hanger puller, manual and hydraulic pole saw, spikes.
• Sprayer applicators, pump sprayer, herbicide applicators, fuel, cones, signs
• Tablets and communication devices

Benefits

What We Offer

• Competitive pay
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Paid training and industry certifications
• Health, dental, vision & HSA options
• 401(k) +
• Paid time off and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

People Promise

Our commitment to Our People is key to the success of our business. We respect differences and use them to create an environment where all employees feel welcome and fairly treated. We seek the best solutions possible by attracting and engaging a diverse workforce where all perspectives are sought and valued.

Lewis Tree Service is an equal employment opportunity employer committed to providing equal opportunity for both applicants and employees. Lewis Tree Service prohibits unlawful discrimination or harassment of employees and applicants based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, age (40+), religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic, all employment decisions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, compensation, training, apprenticeship, promotion, demotion, transfer, lay‑off and termination, and all other terms and conditions of employment. Lewis Tree Service’s practices and policies are administered under applicable federal, state, and local laws.